Seaside Inn

Staff were kind and attentive, and the location and grounds were great. The breakfast was grab and go in the morning, and it was less than desirable. Resort fees included bikes and beach chairs, among other things, and I felt those should’ve been complimentary. We paid $740 for two midweek nights, so my rating reflects the price, the outdated room, those fees, and breakfast. We visited just before Memorial Day weekend, when the whole island was wonderfully quiet. We arrived around 6pm and had to pick up our keys down the street at the sister resort because guest services closes after 6. We’d paid for a top floor room with a partial gulf view, but it was basically a deck anyone could walk onto, with no privacy between the top floor rooms. The grounds leading to the beach and pool were amazing, though the rooms definitely need updating. I’d recommend staying here, as long as you know you’re paying top dollar for a clean, dated room in a great location. Five stars for the staff and location.

The kids were happy spending time in the pool, and the noodles and floats were there for them to use. I especially loved going shelling near sunrise, since the beach was so close. After a tough school year, Seaside Inn made an ideal break for me and my three children. Everything was clean and looked after, and the employees were wonderful. Thomas at reception made us feel welcome and helped us out. Breakfast was great, and having things like sand toys, beach towels, laundry machines on-site, and free parking made the stay easy. We hope to come back soon.

Thomas made check-in pleasant and easy, and the bathroom and room were decent in size. Still, we left a day early and weren’t offered a refund or credit. The room felt old and dim, even though it faced the pool, and the headboards had dust and hair on them. The pool was small and dated, and parking was definitely limited. At night there didn’t seem to be anyone around in case of an emergency. I got a late text saying I could text a number with questions, but when I asked about the complimentary breakfast, the reply came the next morning saying it was at the front desk and ended at 11, which gave us too little time to plan. The beach right in front had sand fleas, just a heads-up. This is the lower-end of the four resorts. Sanibel is beautiful and I’d return to the area, but not this inn.

The staff really made our family trip, especially Steven and everyone else at the front desk. They were so kind and helpful, with the kind of customer service that sticks with you. I also loved that breakfast was offered every morning and that kayaks, bikes, umbrellas, and lounge chairs were free to use. Sea Side Inn and its location felt perfect. The place has been updated but still has that old Florida beach feeling from before condos and high-rises. The atmosphere was peaceful and fun, and it reminded me of growing up and vacationing in Florida. A+++++ all the way. We can’t wait to come back, they made this one of our best family vacations ;)))